Softball Splits with BSC in MonDak matchup

The Lake Region State College Royals softball team traveled to Bismarck to take on the Mystics in a MonDak Conference double header.

Game 1: at Bismarck State College 9 – 10 Loss in 8 Innings

                Amber Stewart (2 – 1) 8 Strike outs

This was the first game for the Royals since their last contests against NDSCS on April 2nd. The layoff caused the Lady Royals softball team to struggle to get anything going at the plate in the first three innings. They were only able to push across one run which is well below their season output early in games. Head Coach Ben Morris said, "We lost our approaches at the plate, we weren't looking to drive the balls into the gap and build on those approaches throughout the game like we usually do." It took the Royals into the fourth and fifth innings to get back to those what they do best. They were able to push 8 runs across the plate in those 2 innings taking the lead. It was short lived however as 4 errors and inconsistent defensive play gave BSC the ability to capitalize with runners in scoring position in those late innings to come back and win. Coach Morris said, "We came out flat and we just couldn't will ourselves out of it in the late innings."

Outstanding performance:

Cherie Malacas: she hit .600, scored 2 runs, had 3 RBI's, and 1 Double to lead the Royals

Game 2: at Bismarck State College: 11 – 1 Win

                Hanna Gary (7 – 0) 5 Strike Outs

The Lady Royals used game one of the short two game set as motivation going into game two to get back to their winning ways. They all had a look of determination that escaped them in the first. They were able to explode for seven runs in the first three innings behind a couple of home runs from Tai Yamamoto to give them that early momentum. Gina Selfe got the start on the mound and was working quickly going three up and three down the first two innings. While hitting in the third inning Gina was hit by a pitch and ended up being taken out of the game. Hanna Gary was able to come in on the bump and pick up where Gina left off. She worked quickly and racked up 5 strike outs in four innings pitched. Head Coach Ben Morris said, "This was a great game to end the day with. Everyone was able to participate in this team win and gain some confidence going into a tough two-week conference stretch. I was happy we bounced back with a win in the second game to get our first MonDak Conference victory of the year."

Outstanding Performance:

Tai Yamamoto: she hit .667, scored 2 Runs, had 4 RBI's, 1 BB, and 2 Home Runs to lead the Royals

Head Coach Ben Morris said, "Overall I was pleased with how we were able to put the first game behind us and get right back where we left off last Sunday with our production at the plate. We were able to make the plays that came to us defensively and our pitchers both worked quickly and put the pressure on the hitters. We are headed into a stretch that will be big for conference seeding as we have 12 games in 10 days. Despite the loss we are still in a great place to be able to accomplish our team goals in regard to the schools first ever MonDak Conference title and a shot at a Region XIII Championship opportunity."